Sara Akhavan

Serotonin guaranteed

If there was ever a stage perfectly set for comfort food to make an all-star comeback and effortlessly reclaim its popularity, we can all agree: the time is now. Whether inspired by familiar cold nights, the flurry of sweatpants that have seized closets across the country, or a year-long pandemic (ding ding), the hunt for an extra bite of warmth and nostalgia is stronger than ever before. That comforting bite, where time escapes and even if just for a moment, everything feels a little nicer; a little quieter. But take note — the world of comfort food found in Charlotte has witnessed a tasty remix since its meatloaf-era beginnings. From old-school American classics to Sichuan dumplings, there’s something soothing in today’s diverse kitchens for every weathered soul. Here are Eater’s latest Charlotte picks to curl up and fend off the feels with.

A number of North Carolina